Pets are like children, and like a child, you want to make sure that your beloved animals are given the same care and attention that you give them.  Choosing a pet boarding facility can be difficult, depending upon your location.  The following tips will help determine whether a boarding facility would be right for both you and your pets.

1.  The grounds should be kept clean of feces and other matter.  Since some animals are allergic to grass, a non-grass or artificial turf relieving area should be provided.

2. Check the facility security.  It's best to have a 24 hr on-site manager to take care of emergencies and night relieving.  There should also be a reliable security system installed.

3.  If the boarding facility does not request that you bring your animal's food, please do it.  Changing diets can really upset an animal's digestive track.  This includes cats.  The facility should keep each animal's food separate and carefully marked so that there is no confusion.

4. Ask if you can bring your pet's favorite toys, beddings, pillow, etc.  Animals can have a problem with separation anxiety, and having a familiar object around can help a lot.  Make sure that the boarding facility records each item that you take.

5. Expect your pet to be a little sad the first day of boarding.  The second day is much better and they are normally very content.  Of course, that doesn't mean they won't want to go home with you when you come to pick them up!

6.  Make sure that the boarding facility requires all animals to have current innoculations, including those for Kennel Cough (Bordatella), and that they require proof from a Vet.  Some people think that giving a dog Robitussin will protect the animal from Kennel Cough, but that is not true.

7.  Ask about relieving, play and feeding schedules.  If your pet is aggressive toward other animals, be sure and let the boarding facility know.  While it is healthful for animals to play together, an aggressive pet can pose a potential problem.

8.  Insure that the room, in which your pet stays, is clean, deodorized, sanitized, and free from any loose material that your pet might ingest.  The door to your pet's room should be sturdy but he should also be able to see through it.

9. If your pet has allergies to certain foods, such as corn, dairy or wheat, it is very important that you tell the boarding facility and that it is written on your pet's registration and run card.  Personal treats should be kept separate and only given to the pet for whom they were intended.

10.  Many boarding facilities have the ability to care for elderly or ill dogs, assuming that the illness is not contagious.  Many owners will bring newly spayed or neutered animals to a boarding facility since the facility can provide close attention and recognize any problems.  If your pet has medication for hyperthyroidism, heart problems, diabetes, etc., be sure and bring that medication with the animal.  Many facilities will also accept animals who have had recent surgery.

11.  If your pet tends to be one who likes to chew on everything, please let the boarding facility know.  Many facilities have an extra charges for damage, and knowing that there could be a problem means that changes could be made in your pet's room so that chewing wouldn't be an issue.

12. Make sure that the facility provides appropriate bedding for your pet.  A dog with arthritis or hip dysplasia could have difficulty jumping up on a twin or youth bed.  The facility should offer alternatives so that your pet won't be uncomfortable.

13. Ask if you may call to check on your pet during normal business hours.  Be sure to leave an emergency contact number with the facility.

14. Ask if pick-up and delivery is available for your pet.  Many boarding facilities offer that service for an additional fee.  If you are getting ready to go on vacation, having your pet picked up at your home will make life easier for you.

15. Ask about early check-in and departure times and fees outside of normal business hours.  There is often an additional charge for that.

16. Ask if baths, grooming and massage/hydromassage are included in your pet's boarding fees, or if they are available at an additional cost.  Dogs like being massaged and the bath insures that your pet goes home looking its best.

17. If your pet gets upset when someone touches his face, neck, or any other part of his body, be sure and let the facility know.  That will prevent a lot of nipped fingers and noses!

18.  Many boarding facilities also offer dog training by a trained professional, for an additional fee.  Training while boarding is a great idea.

19. Please remember that if you are leaving your pet at a boarding facility, while you are still in the area, visiting your pet will often upset him.  They won't understand why you are there and not taking them home.  The staff will understand that you miss your beloved friend, but it's actually easier on the animal if you don't visit.

20.  If you have to cancel your reservation, please let the facility know as soon as possible.

Any good boarding facility will want to make your pet comfortable during the stay, and also want to make you feel good about leaving.  A boarding facility should be as comfortable as the pet's own home.  Remember, you can always ask for a tour of the complete facility and that is highly recommended.  A word of caution; if the boarding facility wants you to make an appointment to tour the facility, look closely.  An boarding facility should always be open for drop in tours during office hours.